Nebraska Monthly Economic Indicators: October 21, 2016

The Leading Economic Indicator – Nebraska (LEI-N) rose by 1.14% during September of 2016. The increase in the LEI-N, which predicts economic activity six months in the future, suggests moderate economic growth in Nebraska in the first quarter of 2017. Four of the six components of the LEI-N were positive during September. There was a strong increase in airline passenger counts and an increase manufacturing hours during the month. There also was an decline in initial claims for unemployment insurance. Business also optimistic. Respondents to the September Survey of Nebraska Business reported plans to increase sales and employment over the next 6 months. Among negative components, there was a decline in building permits for single-family homes during September. The value of the the U.S. dollar also rose during the month, a negative for Nebraska businesses which export